In June this year, I lost the most amazing friend I've ever had the honour of knowing. I miss Simon every day, and there is a massive gap in my life where he should be.

I was going to write a long message about how much I loved Simon, and how I am doing this for him, but I feel that he would appreciate me sharing the real story much more, and wherever he is he will be laughing his little head off at me finding myself in this situation!

I saw the London Landmarks Half Marathon advertised through the Samaritans social media earlier this year.  Given that the charity meant a lot to Simon, I thought to myself "I'll apply for a place and run in his memory", and figured that I would never get a place as it's so popular, but at least I had tried and would make a donation to the Samaritans myself if not.  I thought nothing of it, and was pleased with myself for at least trying to do a good deed.

Then the email came through offering me a place to run on behalf of Samaritans. I hate running with a passion! The shock of getting a place, and the fear of what I'd gotten myself into was soon overtaken by fits of giggles thinking of how funny Simon would find the fact that I am in this situation, facing 13 miles of an activity that I really don't enjoy (the furthest I've ever run is 5 miles!).  

So I'm giving it a go! Knowing how Samaritans was a charity close to Simon's heart, and how hilarious he would find it (those who know him, I'm sure, can picture his hysterical laughter!), is spurring me on to complete it, with an aim of getting round without stopping.

Those who know me know I really am not going to enjoy the training for this, but knowing that I am going to be raising money for such a worthwhile charity in memory of an amazing man will (hopefully!) keep me going.  

So, with that in mind, please could you sponsor me in this undertaking, and help to fund a charity that provides such a lifeline for people during those dark times.

Thank you :)

Leanne xx 

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.